Drivers warned over new number plate rules

Incorrectly displayed or formatted plates could lead to an automatic MOT failure and a fine of up to £1,000

Drivers warned over new number plate rules

Drivers have been cautioned that new regulations regarding registration plates could result in an MOT failure and a fine of up to £1,000. The warning comes as new vehicles will display the latest 75 registration plates from 1 September 2025.

According to motor valuation specialists at BigWantsYourCar.com, many motorists are not fully aware of the rules. A spokesperson for the company stated: “With the 75 plates about to roll out, it is still worrying that many motorists do not fully understand their number plates.” They added: “Even small mistakes in spacing or format can make a plate illegal.”

Registration plates change every six months, on 1 March and 1 September. The latest change means cars registered from 1 September 2025 to late February 2026 will have 75 plates.

To remain road legal, number plates must adhere to a number of fundamental requirements. Plates must be made from reflective material, with black characters on a white background for the front and on a yellow background for the rear. The characters must be in the approved font and follow strict size and spacing rules.

The British Standard marking is also critical. A spokesperson warned: “Missing or incorrect markings can be enough to fail a test.” Plates fitted on or after 1 September 2021 must comply with BS AU 145e and show the British Standard on the plate.

“If you alter the spacing or choose the wrong size, you risk an MOT fail and a fine,” the company cautioned. They advised drivers to ensure their plates are legal to avoid substantial penalties.

Source: Coventry Telegraph

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